In this evolving technological world, PHP vs Python is the most discussed topic. Both are popular server-side languages and preferred for web development, so choosing any one of them is not easy. While various famous websites are built with the open-source scripting language PHP, Python is the most secure language adopted by a large segment of programmers.
However, there are numerous programming languages, such as Java, Ruby, JavaScript, C, etc., but here we will discuss Python vs PHP web programming languages.
In the blog below, we will provide a detailed comparison between these two languages: Python vs PHP. Let’s see if it helps you choose the right programming language for your next web project:
Overview of Python
Python is a high-level, easy-to-understand, and multipurpose programming language. This is the most popular and widely used programming language, invented in 1991 by Guido Van Rossum. It is a suitable choice preferred by developers worldwide for web development projects using frameworks like Flask, Django, and Web2Py.
Whether a fresher programmer or a data scientist, they can choose from a wide array of features for their projects. Python helps experts develop web applications, perform big data analysis via intricate equations, and link databases.
Python is a portable, strong, and open-source language that is fun to use and easy to learn. It has various unique features that are not supported by other programming languages. Compared to other languages like C++, C, and PHP, Python has a simple and readable syntax.
The global web frameworks software market was USD 18.21 billion in 2024. It is projected to grow to USD 177.78 billion by 2032 at a 32.95% CAGR from 2025 to 2032.
Further, the Python Package software market size globally was USD 0.18 billion in 2023, and it is forecasted to reach USD 0.36 billion by 2032 at a 7.7% CAGR within its estimated period.
Features
- It can be embedded with Java, C, and C++ to extend the app’s features
- Offers automated garbage collection features by default
- Easy-to-write and maintain Python code
- Built-in debugger to address the code’s exceptions and errors
- Offer high-level, dynamic data types and supports dynamic type checking
Pros
- An open-source and consistently unfolding language
- Offers WORA functionality
- Creates GUI Apps
- It has libraries like Tensorflow for math-intensive tasks
Cons
- Delay in web application testing procedure
- Slower operations compared to other web development languages
- Difficult error detection due to dynamic typing
Overview of PHP
PHP, also known as Hypertext Preprocessor, was launched in 1995 by Rasmus Lerdorf as a server-side scripting language. Initially, it was named “Personal Home Page; later, it was called Hypertext Preprocessor. It is also known as a multipurpose language commonly used for web development solutions.
PHP is more suitable for developing dynamic HTML content over the web. This programming language is mostly used for creating XML documents, graphics, Flash animations, PDF files, and more. It offers a wide variety of libraries, plugins, features, and add-ons to enhance community support and other functionalities.
You must prefer using PHP, as it is a flexible, practical, and fast programming language for managing dynamic content on HTML sites, databases, and session tracking.
In 2023, PHP has been used to build 77.3% of websites with identifiable server-side programming languages.
According to Market Research Future analysis, the PHP web frameworks software market size was USD 3.81 billion in 2022. The industry is predicted to evolve from USD 4.13 billion in 2023 to USD 8.5 billion by 2032.
Features
- Creates user access reports, providing log-in access
- Offers easy embedding with MySQL and Oracle databases
- It has an open-source nature, can be downloaded freely, and can be used for any project
- Includes compatibility with IIS and Apache servers
- Consistent speed and performance, even during running on the server side
Pros
- PHP solutions can be run on different OS like Linux, Windows, and UNIX
- Offers in-built modules & functions, available to embed with SQL databases easily
- A wide array of frameworks for responsive web app development
- Secure ecosystem for data processing and maintaining it with integrity and confidentiality
Cons
- Slow and wired performance
- Core behavior can’t be modified
- Not apt for content-based app development
Read More: Angular JS vs React JS – Which is Best for Frontend Development
Check Out the Detailed Comparison Table: PHP vs Python
Here is the comparison table for Python vs PHP to help you decide between these two programming languages considering different aspects:
Aspects | Python | PHP |
Purpose | General-purpose programming language. | Primarily designed for web development. |
Syntax | Readable, easy, and concise. | Less consistent and a little long. |
Ease of Learning | Beginner-friendly, instinctive. | Slightly tougher for beginners. |
Use Cases | AI, automation, data science, Web, etc. | Web development, CMS (e.g., WordPress). |
Frameworks | Flask, Django, Pyramid, Web2Py, Bottle, Tornado, TurboGears.Laravel, Symfony, CodeIgniter | Laravel, CodeIgniter, Symfony, CakePHP, Zend, Yii, FastAPI. |
Performance | Generally slower but cultivating. | Quicker for simple web tasks. |
Community Support | Large, active, and diverse. | Large, and focused on web. |
Popularity | Widely used across industries. | Leading in web-related fields. |
Scalability | Outstanding, used in enterprise apps. | Good, particularly for web apps. |
Error Handling | Explicit, robust exception handling. | Simple, but less structured. |
Typing | Dynamic typing and supports type hints. | Dynamic typing. |
Hosting | Requires additional setup. | Widely supported on shared hosting. |
Library Support | Rich libraries for different domains. | Mostly strong for web development. |
Integration | Works fine with AI, ML, and data tools. | Great for MySQL and web integrations. |
Websites Built | Facebook, Wikipedia, Yahoo, and WordPress. | YouTube, Dropbox, Instagram, Uber, Pinterest, Quora, and Spotify. |
PHP vs Python: Which One is Better for Web Development?
This comprehensive comparison between PHP and Python based on different parameters will give you a clear picture of PHP vs Python. Look at the below points to know which programming language will be beneficial while obtaining web development services:
Popularity and Usage in Web Development
Regarding popularity, PHP and Python are the most popular programming languages worldwide, catering to different domains.
Python: With its multipurpose use, Python helps to fulfill all software development needs. It is mainly popular for server-side or backend development due to its machine learning features in web apps.
PHP: PHP is a scripting language, majorly used in web development. It powers over 70% of websites, comprising platforms like Drupal and WordPress. It is suitable for eCommerce sites and CMS development.
PHP vs Python: Speed
Considering PHP vs Python speed is necessary while selecting one for web development. It will help you speed up the code execution process by compilers, decreasing the overall development process time.
Python: While analyzing PHP speed vs Python
PHP: In Python vs PHP speed, PHP wins the race. It has just-in-time compilers and weak maps beneficial to enhance speed of PHP-based apps. It also provides faster-performing live apps like WordPress.
Performance Comparison
Talking about Python vs PHP performance? It varies based on the project requirements and applications that are going to be built.
Python: Though it performs better, it is slightly slower for web-specific projects. It is approachable for computational-heavy applications. Python uses frameworks like FastAPI to optimize web performance with asynchronous competencies.
PHP: When it comes to PHP performance vs Python, PHP is much better at managing core web requests as it was designed mainly for web development. Also, new versions, like PHP 8, have knowingly better speed and memory usage.
Ease of Use and Learning Curve
Looking over PHP vs Python, the ease of learning depends on the chosen programming language’s focus area and syntax.
Python: This language is preferred for its intuitive and straightforward syntax. It is suitable for beginners as it provides an easy learning curve when transitioning to web apps from other apps.
PHP: PHP also provides an easy learning curve for amateurs who are focused solely on web development. However, the syntax is less consistent than that of Python.
Backend Development: PHP vs Python
PHP vs Python for backend
Python: This programming language offers effective frameworks like Flask and Django for building scalable, secure, and versatile backend development. Developers choose it for complex, large-scale applications.
PHP: This programming language is best for backend development because frameworks like Symfony and Laravel make it efficient for feature-rich and robust CMS-driven systems and APIs.
Learn More: Backend vs Frontend Development: Which is Better
Python vs PHP for Web Programming
The choice of PHP vs Python for web development will depend on the available frameworks and flexibility.
Python: Hire Python Developers to develop modern web applications that need better scalability, AI/ML integrations, or API development. Python is an excellent choice for web programming as it has the Django framework for full-stack development.
PHP is more approachable for developing content-heavy, traditional websites. For better results, use it with pre-built CMS platforms and fast web deployment tools.
Security Features
Businesses look at security as the main aspect when obtaining web development services. Higher security is required to protect against vulnerabilities.
Python: The use of frameworks like Django makes Python a more secure option for web app development. It also has features like SQL injection prevention, CSRF protection, and secure password storage.
PHP: You can hire PHP developers, as its recent versions have improved security by comprising built-in mechanisms like password hashing and input sanitization. However, outdated versions must have cases with security vulnerabilities and inconsistent coding practices.
Community Support and Ecosystem
While looking for Python vs PHP for web development, you must consider the community and ecosystem as these highly influence overall support and availability of resources.
Python has support from a wide, diverse community across different domains. It also comprises a rich ecosystem of tools and libraries.
PHP: PHP has a long-active community that emphasizes web development. It provides a broad library of frameworks and tailored hosting solutions that benefit the developers’ community.
Cost and Development Efficiency
Overall, web project costs and development efficiency can vary based on the project’s goals, size, and scope.
Python: Python web projects may have higher development costs because of the increasing demand for knowledgeable developers and more intricate setups. However, its versatility and scalability help to alleviate long-term expenses.
PHP: PHP is more cost-effective than Python for smaller projects, with a quicker development process and diverse hosting options. It is suitable for budget-friendly, faster deployments.
PHP vs Python: Final Verdict
The above blog shows that both PHP and Python are good programming languages for web development. However, a large segment of web developers prefer Python over PHP due to aspects like easily readable syntax, simple learning curve, large community, etc. But you need to hold your horses as Python is not suitable for every software project. Therefore, you need to choose wisely when it comes to Python vs PHP.
Octal IT Solution is a well-known firm in this field. Whenever you need to hire a Python or PHP development company, you can simply contact us. We have skilled professionals who will help you create web solutions to improve your brand reach. Request a call for your web development project!
FAQs
You can use Python over PHP for web development, leveraging its versatility and the latest frameworks like Flask and Django. Python can be used extensively in cases like AI and automation. Conversely, PHP is preferred for traditional web apps and CMS platforms like WordPress. The choice of PHP or Python development services will depend on the project’s needs and goals.
Python is considered more secure than PHP due to its built-in security features, such as XSS, Protection against SQL injection, and CSRF, while PHP is much more vulnerable because of its erratic implementations.
For backend development, you need to think beyond Python and PHP. There are various languages, such as Node, PHP, JavaScript, C#, Ruby, Go, and more, that you can use for backend development based on your project requirements. You can also use Python for highly scalable apps and PHP for web-focused apps.